If you’re like most people, seeing an ant in your home is enough to make you panic. After all, ants are dirty creatures that can spread disease, contaminate food, and damage your property. So, it’s natural to want to get rid of them as soon as possible. 

But before you reach for the insecticide, it’s helpful to know that not all ants are created equal. Approximately 12,000 species of ants exist worldwide, but only a few are considered household pests. 

Of those ants considered pests, only a few seriously threaten your health and safety. So, while it’s understandable to be concerned about ants in your home, keeping things in perspective is crucial.

Here we’ll look at the most common questions about Overland Park pest control and ants’ risks to homes and businesses. 

Does Seeing One Ant In My House Mean I Have An Infestation?

The short answer to this question is “no.” 

A single ant in your home poses no cause for alarm. The ant most likely found its way into your home by mistake. That said, if you start seeing multiple ants in your home, it’s a good indication that you have an infestation. 

If you see more than one ant, many more probably hide from view. Of course, the only way to be sure is to call a professional ant control service near your home. A trained exterminator can quickly assess the situation and determine the best course of action.

Can Ants In My Home Make Me Sick?

There are a handful of ant species that are known to carry disease. The most common of these is the pharaoh ant. 

Pharaoh ants in your home are known to carry a variety of bacteria, including salmonella, staphylococcus, and streptococcus. While these pathogens can be serious, they are not typically life-threatening. However, they can cause great discomfort and may require medical treatment.

Other ant species are known to cause allergic reactions in some people. If you start to experience itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing after coming into contact with an ant, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.

Why Do I Have Ants In My House?

The most common reason for an ant infestation is food. Ants are attracted to food sources, so if you have food that is accessible to them, they will likely find their way into your home. 

Another common reason for ant infestations is moisture. If your home is damp or humid, it creates an ideal environment for ants to thrive. 

Finally, some ants are drawn to homes because of the warmth. In the winter, ants will often seek out homes as a way to escape the cold weather.

Ant prevention tips include:

  • Inspect your home for cracks or holes that ants could potentially use to enter, and caulk or seal them as necessary.
  • Store food in airtight containers, and keep counters and floors clean of crumbs that attract ants.
  • Fix any leaks or drainage issues to limit sources of moisture for ants.
  • Store trash in cans with lids and dispose of it frequently.

Following these tips can make an ant infestation less likely to occur, but if you start to see ants around your home, contact professionals for effective solutions.

What’s The Best Way To Get Rid Of Ants In My House?

The best way to get rid of ants in your house is to call an ant pest control professional. A professional exterminator can quickly and effectively get rid of the ants. In some cases, you may be able to get rid of the ants yourself. However, if you have an infestation, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.

Mantis Pest Solutions offers the most effective ant control in Overland Park. Contact our team today for a free quote.